Lebanon: Anti-militant operation at Syria border region launches July 21

Event

The Lebanese militia Hezbollah and the Syrian military launched a joint offensive in the border region between Lebanon and Syria on Friday, July 21, to rid the area of the remaining Islamist militant presence. Authorities say the operation is focused on the Lebanese town of Aarsal and the Syrian town of Fleita. Early reports have noted significant success on the Lebanese front by Hezbollah. It is unclear how long the operation is expected to continue. Avoid the area.

Context

Islamic insurgents have taken advantage of the porous border between Lebanon and Syria to facilitate operations within Syria and on occasion, within Lebanon. Lebanese military forces and Hezbollah have engaged in multiple sweeps across the region to isolate and eradicate Islamic State- and Nusra Front-linked groups from the area to some success.

Advice

Individuals present in Lebanon are advised to avoid the border region and to remain vigilant at all times elsewhere in the country. As a reminder, Western governments strongly advise their nationals against all travel to Beirut’s southern districts, southern Lebanon, the city of Tripoli (north), and the country’s eastern regions (including Aarsal, Baalbek, Hermel, Majdel, and Rachaiya).